Dressmaker 998B Sewing Machine Manual

The Dressmaker 998B is a versatile computerized sewing machine with 98 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, LCD display, drop-in bobbin system, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, speed control slider, and built-in LED light. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Accessories 7. Basic Sewing Operations 8. Advanced Functions 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Computerized control panel, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, free arm, built-in LED light, foot pedal, accessory storage compartment.

FeatureDescription
LCD DisplayShows selected stitch, length, width and settings
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasy threading with push-button mechanism
Drop-in BobbinTop-loading bobbin system with clear cover
98 Built-in StitchesIncludes utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
One-step ButtonholeAutomatic buttonhole with sensor
Free ArmRemovable extension table for cylindrical sewing
Speed Control SliderAdjustable sewing speed from slow to fast
Built-in LED LightBright illumination of sewing area
Stitch Length/Width ControlAdjustable from 0-5mm length and 0-7mm width
Needle Up/Down PositionProgrammable needle stop position

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

  1. Remove all packaging materials and protective covers.
  2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into AC outlet.
  3. Install foot pedal and connect to machine.
  4. Install needle following arrow direction.
  5. Wind and install bobbin in drop-in bobbin case.
  6. Thread upper thread using automatic needle threader.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off power when threading or changing accessories.

First-Time Setup

Power on machine; follow initial setup procedure.

  1. Thread machine: Use automatic needle threader for upper thread.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place wound bobbin in bobbin case with thread following guide.
  3. Select basic stitch: Choose straight stitch for initial testing.
  4. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch formation.
  5. Adjust tension: Fine-tune thread tension if needed.
  6. Set needle position: Program needle up/down preference.

CAUTION! Always use proper needle for fabric type. Replace bent or damaged needles immediately.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access functions via LCD display and control buttons. Front Panel: Power switch, stitch selection buttons, reverse stitch, needle up/down, automatic thread cutter.

Control Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length/width buttons, LCD display, function buttons, speed control slider.

Basic Settings: Stitch selection (1-98), stitch length (0-5mm), stitch width (0-7mm), thread tension (0-9). Advanced Functions: Mirror imaging, memory function, automatic thread cutter, programmable needle position, twin needle capability.

Connecting Accessories

Standard accessories: Various presser feet, seam ripper, needles, bobbins, spool caps, cleaning brush, screwdriver.

  1. Turn off machine before changing accessories.
  2. Attach presser feet: Lift presser foot lever, align foot with shank, lower lever to lock.
  3. Install additional spool pins for twin needle sewing.
  4. Connect optional extension table for larger projects.

Tip: Always use correct presser foot for selected stitch type.

Basic Sewing Operations

Supports various fabrics from lightweight to medium-heavy.

  1. Select stitch: Choose appropriate stitch for fabric and project.
  2. Set stitch length/width: Adjust according to fabric type.
  3. Position fabric: Lower presser foot before starting.
  4. Start sewing: Press foot pedal gently to begin.
  5. Guide fabric: Let machine feed fabric; do not pull or push.
  6. Reverse stitching: Use reverse button to secure seams.
  7. Finishing: Raise needle, lift presser foot, remove fabric.
  8. Thread cutting: Use automatic thread cutter if available.

WARNING! Never sew over pins. Keep hands away from moving needle.

Advanced Functions

Buttonhole: One-step automatic with sensor. Decorative Stitches: Built-in patterns for embellishment. Memory Function: Store frequently used stitch combinations. Twin Needle: Create professional finishes with parallel stitching.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Remove lint and dust regularly from bobbin area and feed dogs.

  1. Clean bobbin area after each project completion.
  2. Oil machine according to maintenance schedule.
  3. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
  4. Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not spray cleaners directly on machine.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Certified for safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. Copyright © 2025 Dressmaker; trademarks of Dressmaker Corporation. For support, visit www.dressmakercorp.com or contact 1-800-555-SEWING.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needleReplace with correct needle type; ensure straight insertion.
Thread bunchingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust upper and bobbin tension.
Machine won't startPower/pedal connectionCheck power cord; ensure foot pedal is properly connected.
Uneven stitchesTension/dirty feed dogsClean feed dogs; adjust thread tension; check needle condition.
Fabric not feedingPresser foot pressureAdjust presser foot pressure; clean feed dogs; check foot installation.
Automatic functions not workingSettings/reset neededCheck LCD settings; perform system reset if available.

Reset: Turn off machine, wait 30 seconds, restart.

Service: 1-800-555-SEWING; www.dressmakercorp.com

Dressmaker 998B Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025